Mozilla opens Test Pilot platform

Mozilla has finally released its Test Pilot platform to the Firefox masses and with it opens the way to more realistic feedback from users with all levels of experience.

Test Pilot is an add-on for Firefox 3.5 that downloads and installs just like any other add-on. Once active users can take part in tests and try out new functionality before anyone else. In return Mozilla get very valuable feedback and it isn’t limited to the usual tech-savvy individuals who take the time to provide feedback without prompting.

The other big advantage to using an add-on is Mozilla will have more chance of retaining a tester base going forward, but will protect user privacy at all times. In fact users will have control of their own data and must choose to send it to Mozilla after completing a test.

The Test Pilot program has been known about since last year with concrete details appearing in January of this year. To begin with the only test Mozilla are rolling out is a survey so it can get some idea of who has decided to sign-up and just how many testers there are actively using the add-on.

Mozilla has clearly put a lot of time into developing this testing system and I have no doubt they are going to be rewarded for it. Getting an active user base of willing testers that you can request new tests to be completed by at any time is so useful.

Not only will this give Mozilla new feedback on existing features, but could cut development time on new ideas. Early testing wil help demonstrate how good (or bad) a new feature is and therefore allow more or less time to be dedicated to it. Asking questions will also show Mozilla what users really want to see pushing the most popular new features to the top of the development pile.

If you are a Firefox user I encourage you to sign-up and help Mozilla make the software you use better.